The St. Dominic FBLA members earned themselves a spot in the state competition after an outstanding performance at districts in February. They will compete from April 8 to 10 in Springfield, Missouri, against the other district winners for a chance at a state title.

The FBLA team puts in plenty of work all year to prepare for the rigorous tests and presentations all culminating in the state competition and hopefully a shot at nationals. This year, juniors Emma Story, Jenika Hazelbaker and Colby Koenig will be representing St. Dominic.

Emma is participating in the Business Communications and Marketing portion after placing first at districts in Business Communications, Journalism and Marketing. Emma is ready to push herself on a larger stage.

“I’m really excited to go to state! Our district is one of the largest and toughest ones in the state so it’s really great that… [we] were able to qualify. At state, we’ll get to learn more about business and leadership, attend workshops and go to a Springfield Cardinals game… I’m hoping to have fun, learn a lot and qualify for nationals again,” said Emma.

Also hoping to bring home a state win is Jenika, who took home third in Business Communications and fifth in Agribusiness at districts. She is excited to return to state and compete in Business Communications and Agribusiness.

“Going to state means a lot to me, because I’m glad that the work I’ve put in has paid off. Not qualifying in certain events last year motivated me to really work hard for this year. I am very grateful to represent the school and thankful for the support we’ve been given to compete at state. I expect the results to be very close. There are many strong competitors, so I’m hoping that I will be lucky enough to place. Overall, I know it will be a great learning experience no matter what happens,” said Jenika.

Last, but not least, is Colby, who placed fifth in Organizational Leadership and received the Wild Card invitation to state. Colby will be participating in Journalism and Organizational Leadership. He has gained a lot of experience by participating in FBLA and is excited to make his first state appearance.

“FBLA has made a huge impact on my life. It has helped me grow as a person and a leader, and it constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone. By joining this club, I realized that it is extremely important to develop leadership in high school in order to excel in college and in my future career. I am really excited and nervous to compete in tests on the state level. It means a lot to me, because I have never made it this far in the competition and I’m anxious to see if I can move on to the national level,” said Colby.

Consider joining FBLA to take part in these awesome experiences and develop some truly rewarding skills. This group of juniors brings years of experience to the table and are sure to succeed. Make sure to stay up to date and wish them luck as they make the journey to state and hopefully on to nationals.